Grief & Loss

Experiencing loss and grief is an unavoidable part of life. We all encounter significant loss at some point in our lives. A loss may be a diagnosis of an illness (for ourselves or a loved one), the end of a friendship or romantic relationship, or the death of a partner, friend, pet, colleague, or family member. These losses activate feelings of grief. Subtle and less obvious losses or transitions—such as relocating, changing employment, graduating from school, or losing a physical ability—may also result in feelings of grief.

Symptoms follow standard stages that are needed to fully process the loss. If you don’t process your grief and move through the stages effectively, you may develop prolonged grief. Symptoms of prolonged grief are more severe in intensity and duration and may look like major depression.

What are the signs?

Feelings of loss

Difficulty concentrating

Feelings of sadness or depression

Irritability and anger

Frustration

Feelings of alienation or of being misunderstood

Anxiety, nervousness, or ambivalence

Feelings of numbness or of being pathetic

Guilt

Lack of energy and motivation

Feelings of being alone

Fearfulness

Preoccupation with death

What are the signs of prolonged grief?

Symptoms like those of grief but more severe in intensity and duration

Debilitation by grief

Inability to experience joy or meaning in life

Rumination about and obsession with your loss

Constant turmoil

Difficulty focusing because you’re preoccupied

Feelings of hopelessness about your future

Symptoms of depression

We can help you:

Find meaning in your life again

Allow yourself to process your experience

Decrease your avoidance of dealing with your grief, which may lead to prolonged grief or trauma

Take steps toward what matters

Build positive and authentic relationships

Develop coping skills for feelings of loneliness and social alienation